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<p>Just like the dipstick to check the oil in an automobile, a soil test checks to see what nutrients are present and which are needed to grow forages. Dr. Larry Redmon, Texas A&amp;M AgriLife Extension Service state forage specialist, advised cattle producers attending the Central Texas Cow-Calf Clinic recently to have a soil test taken on their pasture, especially with the price of fertilizer.</p>

A soil test is essential to plan for pasture nutrient management

As much as 71 percent of Texas remains in some stage of drought with long-range forecasts indicating potential for dry conditions to last another five or six years.

Blair Fannin, Texas AgriLife | Jan 13, 2014

As much as 71 percent of Texas remains in some stage of drought with long-range forecasts indicating potential for dry conditions to last another five or six years.

Consequently, experts urge cattle producers to be cautious when thinking about restocking herds.

Dr. Larry Redmon, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service state forage specialist, told beef producers at the recent Central Texas Cow-Calf Clinic in Milano that 71 percent of the state is abnormally dry.

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“We are in pretty good shape here in the Brazos Valley, but if you look at the data, about half of the state is in some type of drought conditions,” Redmon said. “This cycle started in 1995. These cycles last 22 to 25 years and we may not be out of this dry cycle until 2020. If you do the math, we’ve still got some potential for dry weather. You might want to be cautious about restocking or buying a bunch of cattle